Andrew Zimmern’s Coconut Custard Pie is a delightful and comforting dessert that is surprisingly easy to make. Inspired by a humble café in South Carolina, this pie is a true testament to the fact that simple dishes made with love can create a deep sense of connection. The pie features a flaky homemade crust, a rich custard filling made with buttermilk and eggs, and plenty of shredded coconut for that tropical flavor.
What sets Zimmern’s Coconut Custard Pie apart from other coconut pies is the use of buttermilk in the filling. This clever twist adds a tangy flavor that balances out the sweetness, making the filling lighter and more nuanced. The pie starts with blind-baking the crust to ensure it stays crisp and flaky, then the custard filling is poured in and baked to golden brown perfection.
To serve the pie, Zimmern recommends topping it with a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream, or homemade whipped cream with a sprinkle of toasted coconut for added texture. Whether you’re baking this pie for a special occasion or just to satisfy a craving for something cozy and classic, it is sure to impress with its easy elegance.
If you’re intimidated by making pie crust, fear not. The key is to use cold ingredients, cut the butter into small pieces, and not overmix the dough. Blind-baking the crust before adding the filling prevents it from becoming soggy, and letting it cool completely before slicing ensures a clean and creamy custard.
When it comes to the type of coconut to use in the pie, Zimmern recommends sweetened shredded coconut for its chewy texture and sweetness. If you prefer less sweetness, you can use unsweetened coconut and adjust the sugar in the filling accordingly. For extra flavor, toast some coconut and sprinkle it over each slice before serving.
In conclusion, Andrew Zimmern’s Coconut Custard Pie is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that captures the essence of Southern baking traditions. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, this pie is sure to become a favorite for any occasion. So why not give it a try and experience the same powerful connection that Zimmern felt when he first tasted this delicious dessert?
